UK-first noise barrier set to be installed on motorway

A new noise barrier, designed to improve the lives of residents living next to the M1 at Wakefield, is set to be installed later this year.

The design being installed at the Denby Dale junction has never been used before in the UK.

As well as reducing noise, the barrier will also act as a safety barrier.

Sujad Hussain, Highways England’s project manager, said: “There has been a long standing issue of noise from the motorway at this location and by installing four sections of barrier we will be able to improve noise levels for residents living nearby.”

Highways England is installing the barrier on four sections of the M1 at junction 39: On the southbound carriageway and southbound entry slip road and on the northbound carriageway and northbound exit slip road.

The barriers, three at 3 metres high and one at 1.85 metres, will be constructed off site.

During the work a 50mph speed restriction will be in place for safety reasons. The hard shoulder and lane 1 on the main carriageways will be closed along with lane 1 on the northbound exit and southbound entry slip roads so a temporary safety barrier can be installed while the work is taking place.

The same slip roads will be closed overnight with signed diversions in place.

Hussain added: “We are planning to start work in November but before then we will be holding a drop in session in September for people to find out more about the work.

“I would encourage people to come along and ask the project team any questions they may have about the barrier and the work that is planned.”